Political Theory: Freedom Video Lecture | NCERT Video Summary: Class 6 to Class 12 (English) - UPSC

Ans. Political theory is a branch of social science that explores and analyzes the concepts, principles, and ideas related to politics and governance. It seeks to understand the foundations of political systems, power relations, and the role of government in society. Political theory involves studying influential thinkers, such as Plato, Aristotle, Machiavelli, and Rousseau, and their ideas on topics like democracy, justice, liberty, and equality.

Ans. Political theory defines freedom as the ability of individuals to exercise their rights, make choices, and pursue their interests without undue interference or constraints. It emphasizes the protection of individual liberties and the absence of coercion or oppression. Different political theorists have varying perspectives on freedom, ranging from negative freedom (freedom from external constraints) to positive freedom (freedom to fulfill one's potential).

Ans. The key principles of political theory related to freedom include: - Individual rights: Political theory recognizes the importance of protecting individual rights and freedoms as a foundation for a just and democratic society. - Rule of law: Political theory emphasizes the rule of law, ensuring that laws are applied equally to all individuals and that government actions are based on legal principles. - Limited government: Political theory advocates for limited government power to prevent the infringement of individual freedoms and to maintain a balance of power between the state and its citizens. - Social contract: Some political theorists, like John Locke, propose the social contract theory, which suggests that individuals consent to be governed in exchange for the protection of their rights and freedoms. - Equality: Political theory often considers the promotion of equality as an essential aspect of freedom, striving to reduce social and economic disparities among individuals.

Ans. Political theory analyzes the tension between freedom and authority by examining the relationship between individuals and the state. It explores the balancing act between granting individuals freedom while establishing a legitimate authority to govern and maintain social order. Various theories, such as liberalism and socialism, provide different perspectives on how to strike this balance. For example, liberals prioritize individual freedoms and limited government intervention, while socialists argue for a more active state to ensure social and economic equality.

Ans. Political theory contributes to shaping political practices related to freedom by providing frameworks, ideas, and principles that guide policymakers and citizens. It helps in analyzing the implications of different policies on individual freedoms and encourages debates on how to achieve a just and free society. Political theorists often advocate for the protection of civil liberties, human rights, and the rule of law. Their theories influence the design of democratic institutions, the formulation of laws, and the promotion of policies that enhance individual freedoms while ensuring a functioning society.